PTSD

When life feels overshadowed by the aftermath of trauma, it can be hard to imagine a way forward. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can leave people feeling trapped and isolated, but support and healing are possible. With the right care, individuals and their families can work toward recovery—together.  

At Northeast Health Services, we understand how challenging it can be to face the emotional and psychological toll of mental health conditions treated by our compassionate team. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you love, our compassionate PTSD treatment program is here to guide you through every step of the healing process.  

What is PTSD, and how does it affect you?

For some, the effects of trauma might come as flashbacks or troubling memories of the traumatic event. For others, there may be difficulty trusting others, feeling disconnected from themselves or loved ones, or an overwhelming sense of emotional numbness.  

There are two kinds of trauma: “big T” trauma and “little t” trauma. Big T traumas are usually single incidents such as accidents, natural disasters, or physical assaults. In contrast, little t traumas are often chronic, stemming from prolonged exposure to triggering situations. These can include experiences such as emotional abuse, neglect, or enduring long-term stress, gradually leaving a lasting impact over time. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that occurs after experiencing a traumatic event or series of events. It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, or background.

Some common misconceptions about PTSD include the idea that it only happens to soldiers in combat or people who have experienced extreme violence. This is not true—PTSD can occur after any trauma and can also develop years after the traumatic event.

Causes of PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Some examples of situations that trigger intense fear or helplessness include the following:

• Chronic stress
• Long-term emotional abuse or neglect
• Military combat
• Physical or sexual assault
• Natural disasters
• Serious accidents

Trauma impacts everyone differently, so there’s no “one-size-fits-all” experience of PTSD. What might be traumatic for one person may not necessarily be traumatic for another.

Symptoms of PTSD

Common symptoms of PTSD include:  

• Recurring flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories  
• Heightened alertness or being easily startled  
• Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind them of the trauma  
• Struggles with sleep or concentration  
• Difficulty maintaining close relationships  
• Feelings of hopelessness, shame, or guilt  

These symptoms affect the individual and can ripple out into relationships, family dynamics, and everyday routines. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward finding ways to cope and heal.  

How does trauma impact mental and physical health?

Trauma can leave a lasting imprint on both the mind and body. A traumatic experience directly affects the brain’s function, particularly areas that process fear and regulate emotions. It can also manifest in physical symptoms, which may include increased heart rate, chronic fatigue, or even immune system concerns.  

Trauma can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. For people with post-traumatic stress disorder, it’s common to struggle with hyper-vigilance (always feeling “on edge”), emotional outbursts, or isolating from loved ones. Additionally, trauma can disrupt a sense of safety, self-esteem, and trust in others—all vital components of a well-balanced life.  

Families often feel the strain as well. If your loved one is living with PTSD, you may feel unsure how to help or how to communicate effectively. It’s important to remember that healing is possible—for both individuals and families. With the right PTSD treatment, everyone involved can gain tools to rebuild connection and find hope.

What is included in PTSD treatment?

At Northeast Health Services, our post-traumatic stress disorder treatment programs are thoughtfully designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for healing. Every person’s experience is unique, so we create customized treatment plans that meet their specific needs and goals.  

Some of the evidence-based approaches we offer include:  

• Trauma-focused therapy: Our skilled therapists help clients explore and process their emotions around traumatic events. We focus on working through unresolved pain to reduce its lingering hold.  
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This approach helps people identify and reframe negative thought patterns tied to their trauma. It can help improve emotional regulation and boost resilience.  
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a non-invasive therapy that helps clients process traumatic memories, lessening their emotional intensity over time.  
• Mindfulness and body-awareness exercises: Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or grounding exercises are used to reconnect people with their physical and emotional well-being.  
• Medication management (if needed): For some clients, medication can be a valuable part of treating PTSD symptoms. Our team offers evaluations and guidance to ensure the best care plan possible.  
• Family therapy: Families play an essential role in recovery. Through dedicated counseling sessions, we help families improve communication, rebuild trust, and create an environment that fosters healing.  

Every step of our PTSD treatment is guided by compassion and a commitment to providing the highest standard of care.  

Is PTSD treatment worth it?

If you or your loved one has been coping with post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, you may wonder whether treatment will make a difference. It’s natural to feel hesitant, especially if the trauma feels too overwhelming to even think about, much less discuss.  

The truth is that treatment can be life-changing. Here’s why:  

• It creates a safe space to address unresolved emotions without judgment.  
• It provides practical tools for managing triggers and anxiety.  
• It strengthens relationships by improving communication and understanding.  
• It helps clients reclaim their lives by reducing fear, guilt, or shame tied to the trauma.  

Many people fear that beginning PTSD treatment means re-living their pain, but that’s not the case. Our approach focuses on healing at a comfortable pace, helping you or your loved one regain a sense of control and purpose.  

How can loved ones support someone with PTSD?

If someone you love is living with post-traumatic stress disorder, you may feel uncertain about how to help. The most important thing you can do is to approach them with patience and understanding. Here are a few suggestions to support them on their healing journey:  

• Educate yourself about PTSD. Understanding their challenges can help you respond with empathy instead of frustration.  
• Respect their needs and boundaries. Give them space when needed, and don’t force conversations about their trauma.  
• Encourage them to seek treatment. Offer support by helping them research therapy options or attending their initial appointments.  
• Foster open communication, but be prepared to listen more than speak. Sometimes, just being there is enough.  
• Take care of yourself, too. Supporting someone with PTSD can lead to a variety of emotions and concerns. Prioritize your well-being by seeking your own support if needed.  

Healing is a team effort, and by providing consistent care and compassion, loved ones can play a powerful role in their family member’s recovery.